Understanding the Nature and Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious medical condition that results from an external force impacting the brain. It often causes significant and lasting effects on an individual’s cognitive and physical functions. TBI is a complex injury with various symptoms and causes, underscoring the need for prompt medical intervention.

TBIs occur primarily after a sudden and forceful impact to the head, causing the brain to collide with the inner walls of the skull. According to the Mayo Clinic, a TBI’s effects can range from temporary disorientation to bruising, torn tissues, bleeding and other physical damage to the brain. These can result in long-term complications and possibly death.

Motor vehicle accidents are among the leading causes of TBI. Collisions, whether from crashes or sudden stops, can cause the head to strike the steering wheel, dashboard,  window or other hard object in the vehicle. Similarly, falls, especially among the elderly or those engaged in risky activities, are a frequent cause. For example, a person can hit their head falling from a height or slipping on a surface.

Athletic activities, particularly contact sports such as football, boxing, and hockey, are also potential causes of TBI. Participants can suffer forceful impacts and collisions that can result in concussions or more severe head injuries. Other possible sources of TBIs are assaults and violent acts, including physical altercations or domestic violence, which may produce head blows that have long-lasting consequences.

Symptoms of TBI depend on the severity of the impact and the area of the brain affected. Common outward indications are headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea and difficulty with balance. Acute cases might be signaled by loss of consciousness, persistent vomiting, seizures and profound changes in behavior or cognition. Other possible symptoms are sensitivity to light and sound, memory problems and impaired thinking.

Early diagnosis and treatment of TBI can be vital in preventing further complications. If you experience any of the foregoing symptoms following a head injury, seek medical attention promptly. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to worsening of conditions, bringing long-term consequences that could have been averted with timely care. A victim or their family also should ask an experienced traumatic brain injury attorney about the possible legal remedies available, such as recovering money damages. 

If you have suffered a head injury in any type of accident, the attorneys at Rich & Rich, P.C. will investigate your case to determine how to recover the compensation that you need and deserve. We have offices in midtown Manhattan and Roslyn Heights, Long Island and can visit you at home if you cannot travel. Please call 917-746-3358 or contact us online for a free consultation.